Pocono News Section

Local Firemen Working To Attract Parade Participation

Local Firemen Working To Attract Parade Participation - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 4:11PM EST

Reported by: Jill Konopka
Thursday, Jun 12, 2008 @ 04:11pm EST
((SHICKSHINNY, Luzerne County) -

We're all certainly feeling those high prices at the pump. It affects our spending, our travel plans and so much more.

Tonight Eyewitness News Reporter Jill Konopka explains how local firefighters are fighting the fuel prices. And trying to attract firefighters and crowds to an annual event.

Lt. Barry Luttinger is getting ready for the Shickshinny Fireman's Bazaar and Carnival. It's an annual event known for it's food, fun and fire trucks. This year though, firemen say fuel prices could hurt parade participation. If fire companies don't bring their best apparatus, the crowds might not come.

Lt. Barry Luttinger told Eyewitness News, "It was almost $200.00 to fill today, another $206.00 last week, so in one week we spent almost $500.00 for our fire trucks alone."

To attract other fire companies experiencing high fuel costs, Shickshinny Firemen came up with one bright idea.

Lt. Luttinger added, "A few of our members discussed ideas of offering gas cards to entice them to come to ours instead of others.”

The firemen went around town soliciting donations for 16 gas cards at $25.00 a piece. Skovish Brothers Pools And Spas hopped on board with the idea. Helen Ruffenach is employed there, "Absolutely, it just spurs even more activity in the community."

So did the owner of Bach's Fitness Center. Jimmy Bach also spoke with Eyewitness News, "I think it helps bring together fire companies to the parade and support the bazaar they have." This year, they hope to raise between $5,000.00 and $8,000.00 for the Fire Departments' general fund.

Luttinger stated, "What it'll do, go for gas and insurance and the maintenance fees on the buildings for the year.))" Outside fire companies will be judged on things like “furthest distance traveled” and the "wow" award. 16 winners will receive those 16 gas cards.

The bazaar just started a few minutes ago. It runs tonight through Saturday. Don't forget, the annual parade begins tomorrow evening at 6:30 on Crary Street.